Can a person be happy without God?

In the Holy Quran, Allah teaches us profound lessons about happiness, fulfillment, and the essence of true peace. Central to these teachings is the understanding that authentic happiness can only be realized through the remembrance and awareness of Him. This impactful message can be found succinctly in Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, where it is eloquently stated: 'Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured.' This verse serves as an explicit reminder that the roots of lasting peace and happiness are deeply embedded in the remembrance of God. The concept of remembrance extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it entails a profound engagement with the divine, an active remembrance that fosters a relationship with Allah. A person who becomes heedless or neglectful of God inadvertently distances themselves from the essential source of solace and joy. Without this connection to the divine, individuals may find themselves entangled in a journey towards emptiness, even if they achieve considerable success and material comfort. In modern society, we often witness a misconception that wealth, power, or fame equate to happiness. Yet, these ephemeral pleasures often lead to disillusionment. Wealth may provide temporary satisfaction, but when a person is spiritually bereft, such happiness is hollow and transient. The teachings of the Quran remind us that true contentment is not derived from external factors; rather, it emanates from an internal state of peace that is granted through a deep connection with Allah. This profound understanding illuminates a path that diverges from a solely materialistic viewpoint on happiness, guiding us instead toward spiritual fulfillment. In Surah An-Nisa, verse 36, Allah hints at the importance of being kind and compassionate to parents, relatives, orphans, and the needy. Here, the Quran illustrates another vital aspect of happiness—our interactions with others. Acts of kindness and charity cultivate a sense of purpose and belonging, creating a nurturing environment for both the giver and the receiver. In a world that often prioritizes individualism, the reminder to care for one another is a powerful testament to the idea that our happiness is intertwined with the happiness of others. Moreover, in Surah At-Tawbah, verse 24, we find a compelling declaration: if the love for Allah and His Messenger is dearer to a person than anything else, then they are indeed on a path toward contentment and genuine happiness. This verse encapsulates the profound relationship that we must nurture with Allah and His Messenger. It emphasizes that our ultimate affection and loyalty should be directed towards the divine and the prophetic teachings that guide us. Such a prioritization not only aligns our lives with spiritual virtues but also enriches our daily existence with meaning and satisfaction. Through these verses of the Quran, it becomes evident that achieving true happiness is not merely a destination, but an ongoing journey characterized by our relationship with God and adherence to His moral principles. It underscores the significance of keeping the heart attached to its Creator, for in that connection lies the essence of fulfillment. The Quran serves as the ultimate guide, offering key insights into the interdependence of faith, kindness, and love for the divine. Furthermore, let us explore how this understanding of happiness transcends cultural and temporal boundaries. Across various religions and spiritual practices, the concept of finding joy in higher consciousness or connection with a higher power is a universal theme. The Quran’s emphasis on remembrance resonates with similar teachings in different traditions – the notion that spiritual awareness leads to inner peace and resilience against life’s challenges. For instance, in Christianity, the teachings of Jesus emphasize the importance of love, compassion, and connection with God. The idea of loving one’s neighbor as oneself aligns beautifully with the Quranic teachings of kindness towards others. Similarly, in Buddhism, the pursuit of happiness is achieved through mindfulness and compassion, echoing the Quran’s notion of remembrance and moral rectitude. This convergence of spirit underscores a fundamental truth: that while the paths may differ, the pursuit of true happiness is a shared human quest. Moreover, we can reflect on the contemporary challenges faced by individuals in the fast-paced, technology-driven environment of today. The incessant quest for validation via social media, the relentless pursuit of material success, and the overwhelming presence of distractions create an ever-increasing sense of anxiety and discontent. In light of these challenges, the Quran's guidance becomes more pertinent than ever. It calls upon us to disengage from the superficial and return to the foundational elements of faith and connection with Allah. The practice of daily prayers, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity can serve as beacons of hope and solace, allowing individuals to anchor themselves amidst the chaos of the modern world. In conclusion, true happiness, as conveyed in the verses of the Quran, is not a fleeting emotion but a profound state of being that arises from a relationship steeped in the remembrance of Allah, kindness toward others, and adherence to moral principles. The teachings of the Quran elucidate that genuine inner satisfaction surfaces when we prioritize our connection with the divine and extend that positivity to all within our sphere of influence. In doing so, we cultivate not only our own happiness but also contribute to the well-being of society as a whole. As we navigate our lives, let us remember that the journey to happiness begins within and is sustained by our remembrance of Allah.